M2M - Machine to Machine Communication is the automated exchange of information between technical end devices such as machines, vehicles or containers and a central control center.
Other details:
M2M applications rationalize business processes by allowing machines and vendors to communicate with each other via the mobile communication network
M2M applications basically involve two steps:
Data transfer (bi-directional, measuring/controlling/regulating, Monitoring)
Data evaluation and process optimization
The core competency of M2M is data transfer using mobile communication technologies (GSM/GPRS/RF)
Benefits:
Efficiency: With M2M, a single server can maintain and monitor up to 8000 simultaneous wireless data connections
Speed: A status check of tens of thousands of vending machines or printers etc. takes only a few minutes
Reduced data volume: Data pre-processing in the intelligent terminal considerably reduces the data payload; data transfer costs reduction
Location independent: The mobile phone data network is available practically everywhere and allows nearly any machine to be monitored. Plug&Play installation
Return on Invest (ROI): within one business year • Ongoing monthly revenues
Application:
Smart Metering: remote meter reading within the energy market
Vending: remote maintenance/control/telemetry of vending machines
Track &Trace: logistics and fleet management, traffic telemetric, container tracking
Automation & Control: DG Monitoring, pumps, escalators, etc.